Review: The potential of nanocellulose composites for sustainable food packaging applications

Abstract This work addresses the innovative use of nanocellulose (NC) as an environmentally friendly and sustainable substitute for conventional food packaging made of polymers. The review delves into the synthesis approaches of NC/polymer‐mixed composites. The characterization of these composites is discussed, highlighting their mechanical properties, biodegradability, and characteristics of a barrier toward oxygen, moisture, and oil resistance. The review further explores the development of active packaging, which utilizes NC's capacity to preserve and release active ingredients like antioxidants and antimicrobials to lengthen the amount of time that food supplies can be stored. The evolution of intelligent and smart packaging is also explored, showcasing how NC‐based packaging can incorporate indicators for freshness, temperature, pH, and spoilage, offering customers and retailers knowledge accessibility in real time. The opportunities and problems facing NC in food packaging are discussed, and the need for more study and advancement is highlighted to reach its full potential. For those interested in sustainable food packaging solutions, researchers, business professionals, and policymakers will find this thorough review to be highly insightful. Highlights It covers examples of polymer composites filled with NC. Mention the preparation methods and characterization of NC‐based composites. Highlight the promising areas of NC /polymer composite applications in smart food packaging Concludes the challenges and prospects of NC composite in food packaging.